Japanese culture and tradition will take centre stage in March when Calgary hosts a new sumo festival. Sumo Fest 2026 is being billed as the first sumo wrestling festival of its kind in Canada. The event will offer a Japanese-inspired market hall offering food, drinks, local vendors and cultural exhibitions, as well as live sumo wrestling bouts featuring internationally recognized sumo athletes. “Sumo is over a millennium old tradition rooted in ceremony, respect and cultural honour,” said Kim Aban, director of the Calgary Japanese Community Association. “Sumo Fest is a chance to share a piece of Japanese culture with the wider Calgary community while creating space for people to gather, learn and engage in meaningful ways.” “Our hope is to offer a first taste of sumo to Canadians that inspires deeper appreciation for Japanese culture and the creation of future fans.” Sumo Fest 2026 runs from March 13 to 14 at the Nutrien Western Event Centre. Tickets start at $32, and a portion of the proceeds will go to supporting the Calgary Japanese Community Association and its cultural programming. To learn more about the event or buy tickets, visit SumoFest.com.
